Embiid’s Knee Injury Forces 76ers to Consider Surgery Options

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is consulting with doctors and exploring alternative treatment options for his injured left knee, which has limited him to just 19 games this season. Sources told ESPN that both Embiid and the team are considering surgery as a potential solution.

Despite his determination to play, ongoing treatments, including regular injections, have not resulted in any significant improvement. Embiid is scheduled to undergo further tests on his knee early this week, after which he will work with specialists to determine the best course of action.

Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has been vocal about the possibility of needing surgery or an extended rest period to recover properly. He played just 39 games last season after suffering a torn meniscus in the same knee, which eventually required surgery. This season, persistent knee issues, along with a foot sprain, have kept him from making a significant impact, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, his lowest output in years.

The 30-year-old’s latest performance against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday was another cause for concern. After experiencing swelling in his knee, he played 31 minutes, scoring just 14 points and missing all six of his three-point attempts. Coach Nick Nurse decided to bench Embiid for the fourth quarter, a move he justified with the team’s performance at that moment. Embiid has faced challenges moving effectively on the court, raising questions about his ability to contribute at a high level.

“He’s giving us what he can,” Nurse said regarding Embiid’s performance. “He’s not himself, we all know that. I commend him for giving us what he can.”

With the 76ers currently sitting at 20-36 and losing seven straight games, the franchise’s playoff hopes are diminishing rapidly. Their first-round draft pick is top-six protected, and should the team continue to struggle, it may affect their lottery standing. As such, it’s crucial for the organization to weigh the risks carefully regarding Embiid’s health.

The 76ers opened the season with championship aspirations, but injuries have taken a toll. Tyrese Maxey, another key player, is also listed as questionable due to a finger sprain, further complicating the team’s situation. Despite this, the team’s focus remains on determining how to best handle Embiid’s ongoing knee problems.

Embiid’s injury struggles have defined much of his career, and as he approaches a contract worth over $248 million in the coming seasons, the 76ers may need to prioritize his long-term health over short-term gains. Time will tell whether surgery or another treatment plan will restore Embiid to his All-Star form.